This week, a sighting of an adder on Askøy, located just outside Bergen, has prompted local animal insurance experts to advise dog owners to remain vigilant. The sighting, reported by Kent Huskår, highlights the early emergence of snakes due to the unseasonably mild weather, with Huskår noting he has never encountered a snake this early in the year. The adder is known to come out along trails and in gardens as the ground warms after winter.

Kari Beate Stenseth, a claims manager at Tryg Insurance, emphasized the importance of being mindful of snakes as outdoor activities increase with rising temperatures. While adders are typically non-aggressive, they can bite if threatened, posing a significant risk, especially to dogs that may investigate their surroundings closely. Stenseth warns that snake bites can be potentially life-threatening for both dogs and cats, making awareness crucial as pet owners enjoy the outdoors.

Given the early spring conditions, this incident serves as a reminder for all pet owners in the region to keep their animals under watch during outdoor excursions. With the potential for snake encounters becoming more likely, the urgency to act and educate on snake safety cannot be understated as the temperatures rise and nature awakens.